Xsect Balance and Groundcover reduce whitefly pressure in a Mexican tomato greenhouse

JULY 2023

El Chapoteadero, a commercial greenhouse operation dedicated to tomato production in the state of Puebla, Mexico, has successfully addressed ongoing pest and weed pressure by implementing Svensson’s Xsect Balance insect netting and Groundcover solutions. Together, these products help create a more stable greenhouse climate while supporting healthier crop development and more efficient production.

A growing, export-focused operation

El Chapoteadero began operations in 2008 with the goal of supplying tomatoes to export markets. From the outset, growth has been driven by a strong focus on sustainability and innovation, both in greenhouse design and cultivation practices.

As part of this development, the operation transitioned from soil-based cultivation to coconut coir substrate, adopting a hydroponic system better suited to consistent quality and higher export demands.

To stay aligned with changing market requirements, El Chapoteadero is also diversifying its crop mix. In addition to beefsteak tomatoes, production is expanding to include grape tomatoes and TOV (tomatoes on the vine), supporting long-term profitability and market flexibility.

Climate solutions to support growth

As production expanded, the need for reliable climate and crop protection solutions became increasingly important. Svensson’s experience in greenhouse climate management has played a key role in improving growing conditions at El Chapoteadero.

Two solutions in particular — Groundcover and Xsect Balance — have been central to improving weed control, reducing pest pressure, and supporting a more stable greenhouse environment.

First results with Groundcover

During a recent visit, Engineer Jaime Roque, who is responsible for greenhouse operations at El Chapoteadero, shared insights into their experience with Svensson solutions.

“Our first experience with Svensson was using Groundcover. We achieved excellent results in terms of durability and performance, and it quickly proved to be a valuable part of our operation. That experience encouraged us to look at other solutions that could strengthen our overall production strategy.”

Groundcover helped reduce weed pressure in the greenhouse while contributing to cleaner working conditions and improved operational efficiency.

Addressing whitefly pressure with Xsect Balance

One of the most serious challenges at El Chapoteadero has been whitefly pressure, a persistent threat to tomato quality and yield. In this region, whiteflies are also associated with a high risk of viral transmission, increasing both crop losses and chemical control costs.

Jaime explains what led them to consider insect netting:

“Crop losses caused by viruses and the constant cost of applications were the key factors that pushed us to try Xsect Balance. Although the initial investment was higher, the promise of effective pest exclusion without compromising airflow made it worth testing.”

Proven results in commercial production

Xsect Balance was first installed as a trial in one greenhouse module.

“The results were very positive,” says Jaime. “We saw a clear reduction in pest presence while maintaining good airflow inside the greenhouse. Based on those results, we decided to replace the insect nets in all remaining modules.”

Currently, two additional greenhouses at El Chapoteadero are being renovated and will be fully equipped with Xsect Balance netting.

A justified investment

Reflecting on the results, Jaime summarizes the value of the solution:

“Xsect Balance has become very important to our operation. It has helped us reduce pest pressure, lower the cost of applications, and minimize losses from virus-affected plants and fruit. That clearly justifies the investment.”

Expert guidance for greenhouse pest control

Pest management remains a constant challenge in greenhouse production. With the support of Svensson’s climate experts, growers can identify solutions tailored to their specific crop, production system, and local conditions — helping to create a healthier greenhouse climate and more resilient production over time.